Keeping your dab gear clean isn’t just about appearance—it’s key to preserving flavor, airflow, and the lifespan of your rig, banger, and tools. A clean setup means smoother hits and fewer impurities. Here’s a concise guide to the best cleaning products and methods for dab accessories.
Essential Cleaning Solvents
Isopropyl Alcohol (91–99%)
The gold standard for cleaning glass, quartz, and metal. High-percentage IPA quickly dissolves sticky reclaim and evaporates residue-free. Combine it with coarse salt for a mild abrasive “shake and soak.” Always rinse with hot water afterward and let pieces dry fully before heating again—alcohol is flammable.
Ethanol (Food-Grade or Denatured)
A solid alternative to IPA with a softer scent and similar cleaning power. It’s preferred by some users who reclaim non-toxic residue. Use in well-ventilated areas, away from flames.
Hot Water
Never underestimate simple heat. Hot water loosens residue before an alcohol soak and works well for routine rinses.
Specialized Cleaners
Formula 420/710 Cleaners
Pre-mixed blends of solvents and surfactants designed for resin removal. They clean fast and are perfect for glass or quartz pieces—just rinse thoroughly to eliminate any leftover scent or film.
Grunge Off
A reusable soak-based cleaner ideal for intricate glass rigs. It loosens buildup without the need to shake or scrub, keeping fragile percolators safe.
Orange Chronic and Citrus-Based Cleaners
Quick and effective, with a pleasant orange aroma. These are great for rapid refreshes but should always be followed by a rinse to remove oils.
Dark Crystal Glass Cleaner
A plant-based, non-toxic option for those avoiding alcohol. Best for long soaks to dissolve reclaim naturally.
Handy Cleaning Tools
Coarse Salt
When combined with IPA inside glass, coarse or kosher salt acts as a gentle scrubber that helps dislodge grime. Avoid using it on quartz—it can cloud the surface.
Cotton Swabs (Glob Mops, Q-Tips)
Crucial for banger care. After each dab, swab the warm (not hot) surface with a drop of IPA to prevent carbon buildup or “chazzing.”
Pipe Cleaners & Bottle Brushes
Perfect for tight spots and recycler tubes. Use soft bristles to avoid scratching.
Microfiber Cloths
For wiping and polishing without leaving lint.
Silicone Plugs or Caps
Seal rig openings for shake cleaning—keeps solvent inside and your hands clean.
Alcohol Wipes
Convenient for quick cleaning of dab tools, carb caps, and e-rig surfaces (avoid electronics).
Cleaning by Material
Quartz Bangers
For daily care, use hot water and a cotton swab. For deep cleaning, soak in warm IPA (never while hot) and rinse thoroughly. Avoid metal tools that can scar the quartz.
Glass Rigs
Start with a hot water rinse, then shake with IPA and coarse salt. For delicate percolators, switch to a soak-only cleaner like Grunge Off. Always rinse until odor-free.
Titanium Tools
Wipe with IPA or give a short soak. You can heat-treat lightly to burn off residue, but avoid red-hot temperatures that weaken the metal.
Silicone Pieces
Skip alcohol—it can degrade silicone. Use hot, soapy water or freeze to harden reclaim, then flex the piece to break it off.
Pro Tips
An ultrasonic cleaner with warm water and mild soap can restore quartz or glass to near-new condition—just keep the temperature low. Never mix cleaning chemicals or heat pieces with any alcohol remaining. Always let them air-dry completely before your next session.
Clean tools make for better flavor, smoother airflow, and a safer, longer-lasting setup—because every great dab deserves a clean stage.